motel void

Meet 24 y/o Richard Orofino, a Brooklyn-based singer songwriter/producer, in possession of a broad palette of musical skills and boundless inspiration. He began writing and producing music in 2013, starting on piano, moving to drums and later guitar, all while honing his production skills crafting hundreds of bedroom pop gems from the attic of his parent’s house on Long Island, NY. 

MOTEL VOID: You’re from Brooklyn, New York. How would you describe the current music scene there? Do you feel that you’re a part of it?

Richard Orofino: There is definitely a music scene happening here. A few different scenes of course but it seems all very welcoming and happening. Lots of people play in each others live bands and record and write with each other. It’s very supportive and a great community.

MOTEL VOID: One of your biggest influences is Elliott Smith. What do you like the most about his music?

Richard Orofino: I love the way he works his lyrics with his musical ideas. It all seems really opposite from each other and I think it’s just amazing.

MOTEL VOID: You also draw inspiration from David Lynch, I’m a big fan myself. What do you think is his best work?

Richard Orofino: I don’t know, that’s too difficult. My hot take is my favorite season on twin peaks is the return.

MOTEL VOID: I love your new single ‘I Hope So’. Could you tell us more about the recording and writing process of this track?

Richard Orofino: My friend Christian Taylor and I met up in LA to write. He had an idea to slow down the track and have me sing it like wayyyy below half speed and then bring it back up to create a strange jittery vocal effect. We worked it up as a demo together and then I finished it in my Brooklyn studio. I love Christian Taylor.

MOTEL VOID: Your plans and goals for the rest of the year?

Richard Orofino: Have fun, be safe !